Man convicted in Hilton burglaries appeals 8-year sentence

NEWPORT NEWS — The Virginia Court of Appeals will hear the case of a Newport News man convicted last year in a string of burglaries in the Hilton section of the city.

Edward Sigler, 36, was sentenced to eight years and three months in prison on one count of burglary and five counts of grand larceny.

The appeals court has agreed to hear oral arguments in the case, but a hearing date has not been set.

Sigler, who pleaded guilty to all charges, was also ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution to three of the victims.

In his appeal, Sigler argues that his sentence as well as his restitution amount are too high and is requesting a new sentencing hearing.

Sigler was convicted in connection with five of nine residential burglaries that occurred along James River Drive and River Road between Jan. 12, 2011, and Feb. 4, 2011.

The burglaries, which occurred during the day, were committed on foot. Sigler reportedly left with the items in a backpack, police said. Jewelry was the item most-often taken, but cash was also reportedly stolen. Sigler was arrested on Feb. 4, 2011.

Sigler is also appealing his prison sentence.

Substitute Judge Randolph West sentenced Sigler at the upper range of sentencing guidelines, which ranged from four years to eight years and three months. After serving his prison term, Sigler must spend 17 to 20 months in the Youth Challenge program, an alternative sentencing program that helps nonviolent offenders battling substance abuse.